Smart Sensors for Advanced Combustion Systems

Introduction This research is directed at the development and application of a new class of optical sensors, based on absorption of light from tunable diode lasers, which enable in situ measurements of temperature and gaseous composition, in real time and in a variety of research-oriented and practical energy-conversion systems. These sensors have significant potential to enable exploratory research on new energy conversion concepts, to expedite the pace of development of new combustion technologies with reduced pollutant and greenhouse emissions, and to facilitate gains in performance (reduced greenhouse emissions and reduced maintenance) in existing combustion systems. In addition, the real-time capability of these sensors will enable explorations of new, unsteady energy-conversion schemes with the potential for reduced emissions through real-time control.